Leroy Beavers
Georgia Black Fishermen
African American participation in marine-related careers began as early as 1796, when the federal government issued Seamen’s Protection Certificates to merchant mariners defining them as “citizens” of the United States effectively making maritime employment one way for Blacks to shape their identities. This collection This project documents the fishery-related occupations of African Americans in coastal Georgia 1865 to present and gather information for future work that may ascertain the relationship between their decreased participation and changes in regional fish populations and the fishing industry.
Michelle Duncan, PhD
Mr. Leroy Beavers grew up in a fishing family in McIntosh County in Sherman Bluff, Georgia—30 miles south of Savannah. His love for fishing, imparted by his grandfather, deepened as he grew older. He fished often while stationed in various locations during his 20 years of military service. Fishing taught him patience, which he incorporated into all aspects of his life. After leaving the military, Mr. Beavers began working in his father’s barbershop, where he still works and intends to pass on to his grandson.
Scope and Content Note
Mr. Beavers recalls his family’s involvement in the fishing and shrimping industries and the changes and obstacles faced by many African Americans. One such obstacle he recalls is the influx of foreigners into the industry and their disregard for regulations. Mr. Beavers also recalls his mother and aunts’ involvement in the shrimping industry as strikers and his uncles’ misfortune that cost them their boats and lives. Mr. Beavers advocates for more angler education and restrictions to improve declining populations of his favorite species, trout.
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